Document Type
Argument Essay
Publication Date
1989
Excerpt
A common practice of education in grade schools is ability grouping. On the basis of written exams and other types of tests, students are assigned to a certain group based on their ability or potential. If a child does not place into the high group, his future education and emotional stability may be endangered because of low teacher expectations, poor peer modeling, and slow learning pace. Although proponents argue that ability grouping provides more learning opportunities, this is not the case with those of lower ability, and it may actually depress their achievement. The alternative, mixed ability grouping, lessens problems of labeling, low expectations, elitism, and poor self-concepts because children of lower ability are less obviously identified.
Recommended Citation
Stien, Ann, "Equal Opportunities (1989)" (1989). The Valpo Core Reader. 414.
http://scholar.valpo.edu/core_reader/414